I’m not a huge fan of New Year’s resolutions. They always seem to me to be based on scarcity and shame. Resolving to lose weight, be more organized, stop spending so much money, quit smoking - all based on the premise that you need to be less inadequate in the coming year than you are today. No good comes from this. You can not achieve happiness and peace through punishment and self-deprivation.

I am, however, a fan of growth, improvement, intention and visualization. In other words, life changes based in joy and self-love. Success (however you define it) will spring up for you if you start from a place of gratitude and mindfulness. There is much more to come from Demanding Joy about rewriting your story and changing your life, but before we set our intentions for an amazing 2016, let’s pause to reflect on this year. In order to get clear on what we want in the future, let’s take a personal inventory of the year that’s coming to a close.

Find a cozy place to journal. My favorite spot is in front of the fireplace with a snoring dog at my feet. Consider the following:

What went well for you in 2015? What are you grateful for this year? What did you have in your life this year that you want even more of next year?

Any surprises? Lessons learned?

What are you most proud of this year? What did you accomplish?

Did any new people come into your life?

Do you have a favorite memory or a best day(s) of the year?

Is there anything in your life (beliefs, behaviors, relationships, material objects…) that no longer serve your highest good? Anything you want to release from your life?

If you close your eyes and envision your happiest, healthiest self, what does that look like? Use lots of detail. There are no limits.

If you focus on what’s great about your life and what can be even greater in the future, then you’re ready to set your intentions or growth goals for the new year.

I hope your holidays are joyful and amazing! See you in January!

If you would like some help setting or achieving your goals, give me a shout. I would be honored to be part of your journey.